Faisal Vawda Alleges Death Threats Over FBR Vehicle Procurement Controversy
Senator Faisal Vawda has accused officers from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) of issuing death threats after he raised concerns about the procurement of 1,010 vehicles, a matter that was discussed during a Senate Standing Committee meeting. Vawda claimed to have evidence backing up his allegations.
The Senate Standing Committee on Finance, led by Senator Saleem Mandviwala, convened to discuss the controversial vehicle purchase deal. During the meeting, Vawda alleged that FBR officials threatened his life after he brought up the issue. He further asserted that he was prepared to present evidence to substantiate his claims.
Vawda also named specific FBR officials and revealed that he had compiled a list of 54 corrupt officers, which he said he was ready to share publicly.
In response, FBR Chairman Rashid Langrial expressed concern over the serious nature of the allegations. He emphasized that, as a parliamentarian, Vawda’s complaint warranted immediate attention. Langrial stated, “If you received threats, I could also be at risk. This matter will be sent for criminal investigation.”
Vawda urged the government to take swift action, noting that he had faced similar situations while in office and was keen to ensure that the matter was not delayed.
The committee also discussed a recent raid conducted by FBR officers at a multinational company’s office. Members, including Farooq H. Naik, called for a criminal investigation into the raid and suggested that the case be referred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
Langrial assured the committee that a full inquiry would be conducted into the raid, offering to provide a complete report if the committee trusted him. However, he expressed his willingness to have another officer conduct the investigation if preferred.
Senator Shibli Faraz raised concerns about the vehicle procurement process, particularly the lack of competitive bidding, which he argued was a criminal matter that warranted investigation. Langrial assured the committee that the vehicle purchases would be put on hold until all issues were addressed, stressing the need for prompt resolution.
The discussion also included concerns over the approval of the procurement process by the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA). Langrial clarified that while the law did not require prior PPRA approval, the process should have been reviewed by the PPRA board. He suggested that the finance minister request detailed information from the PPRA about the vehicle purchase.
Langrial also questioned why other government departments were not treated similarly to FBR officers in the Integrated System, expressing frustration with the lack of uniformity across government agencies.
